Sticking to our philosophy

David Weir believes Saturday's clash with much-fancied Brentford will give him a clear barometer of where the Blades are at.

Many pundits are tipping last season's beaten play-off finalists to go one better this time around and Weir expects a tough afternoon in the capital.

Weir knows the Blades will be under the cosh at times at the weekend, but he is confident the players can handle the pressure.

Speaking ahead of departing south, he commented: "Because of how good Brentford were at Griffin Park last season, I would expect them to come out and take the game to us.

"The emphasis will be on them to attack us, so we will have to be ready, but the game itself will take shape after the opening exchanges and we will stick to our philosophy.

"It will be a good test for us, given the opposition, but this will also give us a good idea of what we are up against in this division, because I feel Brentford have improved their squad from last season and Uwe (Rosler) will fancy their chances this time around."

Weir is already aware of the Blades vocal travelling support and admits he is looking forward to experiencing it for the first time in a competitive fixture.

He added: "Our supporters follow us in terrific numbers away from home, we have seen that already in pre-season and hopefully we can give them something to cheer at the weekend."